Don't give Rabbits as Presents

Whether its Easter, Christmas or a Birthday the practice of giving animals
as presents is wrong. There are very few absolutes when dealing with animals
but this is one of them, never give an animal as a gift.

The slogan "A puppy is for life not just Christmas!" holds true for all
animals including rabbits. To many rabbits are given as presents and end
up in rescues when the novelty has worn off or because the long term care
hasn't be considered.

Why not as a present?

Days like Birthdays and Christmas are the worst days to bring a new animal
into the household, they are busy, noisy and disruptive. An new rabbit needs
calm surroundings to settle in.

Many of the animals available for Christmas/Easter time in petshops and from
breeders have been specifically breed to take advantage of buyers wanting
presents. If they are willing to sell animals as presents they are irresponsible. If
they aren't responsible in choosing appropriate homes for their animals, they are just
as likely to be irresponsible in ensuring the health of the animals they are
breeding from. Vet bills don't make good presents.

Most people like to choose their own pet, the colour or character you pick might
not match up to what they would choose given to choice.

Expressing a want for an animal if very different to being prepared to own one. "I want
a dog but that doesn't mean I have the time/money to care for one."

Caring for any animal is a big commitment and research into the needs of an animal
need to be done before you own it not afterwards. A mistake like feeding the wrong food
can kill a rabbit.